Off and racing on Hostworks Stage 1 from Prospect to Lyndoch

After a year of waiting, the world’s best cyclists will once again hit the streets of Adelaide in the biggest bike race outside of Europe.

The 2016 Santos Tour Down Under will officially get underway today as the peloton races from Prospect to Lyndoch to set the pace for six days of exhilarating competition.

Tourism Minister Leon Bignell said Hostworks Stage 1 starts at Propsect at 11am this morning and riders will pass through Walkley Heights, Tea Tree Gully, Inglewood, Chain of Ponds and Kersbrook before looping through Williamstown, Cocktatoo Valley and Lyndoch four times.

“Last year Stage 1 of the race followed just days after the devastating Adelaide Hills bushfire and it was moving to see the public support the region through attendance,” he said.

“Our return to the Barossa, will allow fans to witness the resilience of our regions and the regeneration that has occurred throughout the Hills over the last year.

“The circuit in the Barossa, which will see the riders travel a 27km loop three times, will provide a great opportunity for fans to position themselves in one of our most beautiful and famous regions, enjoy the local fare and see plenty of action.

“Riders are also excited to take in their first real taste of the South Australian landscape under competition conditions and to show the field what they’re made of.

“It will be exciting to see local champion and 2015 Santos Tour Down Under winner Rohan Dennis from BMC Racing Team back on South Australian streets.

“Last year was a great success for Rohan as he set a new record average speed for an individual time trial at the Tour de France and he will be happy to show the home crowd his growth over the past 12 months.

“Another 2015 winner, the Santos Tour Down Under Best Dressed Town of Williamstown, is also eager to secure back-to-back titles.

“The entire town contributed to the decoration and atmosphere of celebration, no doubt they will surpass that this year to show support for the riders during their four passes through town.

“The race route includes the Subaru King of the Mountain on North East Road at Lower Hermitage and two iiNet sprints on Williamstown Road at Cockatoo Valley.”